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SNA → HOU
Which side of the plane to sit from John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana) to William P Hobby Airport (Houston)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this transcontinental hop, offering a stunning panoramic view of the Southern California coastline immediately after the famous SNA steep takeoff, followed by expansive views of the Gila National Forest and a high-probability view of the Houston skyline during the approach into Hobby.
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Orange County Coastline
Immediate views of Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and the Pacific Ocean during the initial turn after takeoff.
Imperial Valley
The lush agricultural grid of the California desert contrasting sharply with the surrounding arid wilderness.
Gila National Forest
Massive stretches of protected wilderness in New Mexico, offering deep greens and complex terrain.
Rio Grande
The iconic river defining the borderlands, visible as a silver thread through the desert floor.
Houston Skyline
A premier view of Downtown Houston's skyscrapers if the flight approaches Hobby from the north or west.
The right side provides the best 'wow' factor during the SNA departure; the steep climb offers a bird's eye view of the coast. On arrival at HOU, the right side usually has a clearer view of the Texas Medical Center and the downtown core. For sunset flights, the right side will witness the full spectrum of the desert sky.
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Santa Ana Mountains
Aerial views of Santiago Peak and the Cleveland National Forest as the plane climbs toward cruising altitude.
Sonoran Desert
The stark, beautiful landscapes of central Arizona, featuring rugged mesas and dry riverbeds.
Mogollon Rim
The dramatic escarpment in Arizona that marks the edge of the Colorado Plateau.
West Texas High Plains
The geometric patterns of pivot irrigation circles and the vast agricultural expanses of the Llano Estacado.
Lake Conroe
A large reservoir north of Houston visible during the final descent and vectors for landing.
Sit on the left if you prefer looking at the higher mountain peaks of the Southwest. For the best lighting, a morning flight will have the sun on the right, keeping your window shaded for better photos of the desert landscapes. During descent, look for the sprawling northern suburbs of the Woodlands and Spring.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,180 km (1,355 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 54 min
Departure: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Arrival: HOU (29.64539909, -95.27890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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